Desilt 5k sqm for restart of agri operations in Sattari: HC to mines department

Panaji: The high court of Bombay at Goa has directed the directorate of mines and geology (DMG) to desilt around 5,000 sqm in Pissurlem, Sattari, so that agricultural activities can commence.
The DMG, in pursuance of the high court order, issued a direction to R S Shetye and brothers, Carminho Costa, Cosme Costa and sons, and Sesa Resources Ltd, requiring these parties to contribute over Rs 18 lakh to desilt the area in survey no. 45/12 in Pissurlem.
“For the present, the director of mines and geology can proceed based upon the report of the agriculture department and complete the work of desiltation to the extent of 5,000sqm as expeditiously as possible,” said the division bench comprising justices Mahesh Sonak and Valmiki Menezes. The court observed that the direction refers to an agriculture department report stating that 5,000 sqm must be desilted so that agricultural operations can start. “The notice also refers to the de-siltation of the natural lake at the site,” the bench said.
Advocate Norma Alvares, appearing for petitioner Hanumant Parab, submitted that the desiltation of only 5,000 sqm wouldn’t suffice, and that an area of approximately 50,000 to 60,000 sqm would have to be de-silted.
“We grant liberty to the petitioner to make a representation to the director of mines and geology about their claim and the area which needs to be desilted, and along with the representation, the petitioner can produce proper material to justify their claim/demand,” the high court observed. “If such a representation is indeed made within 15 days from today (Monday), then the director of mines and geology is to consider and dispose of the same, and if necessary, by giving an opportunity of hearing to the petitioner and also the mining companies. All contentions of all parties in this regard are kept open.”